Apparatus and method for centralized power management

ABSTRACT

The invention describes a system and method for arranging to provide power to a power monitor device. The disclosure describes the system and method receiving a request for power for at least one device specified by a power monitor device. The disclosure describes receiving at least one proposal from an entity desiring to supply power according to the request for power. A best proposal of the at least one proposal is determined. And the system and method command the power monitor device to supply power in accordance with the best proposal.

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates in general to power consumption, and moreparticularly to management of power consumption.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

In order to conserve energy and alleviate power shortages at certaintimes of the day, it is advantageous to encourage consumers to make useof power at non-peak hours of the day, thus causing power consumption tobecome more uniform throughout the day. Traditionally, electricaldevices have been activated whenever a user needs a function performedby the electrical device. For example, if a wash needs to be done, theuser of the washing machine loads the washing machine and does the wash.The power usage aspect of doing the wash is not generally considered.Traditionally, a power network distributes its power through powerlines. These power lines eventually terminate in power meters, whichmeasure the amount of power that flows through them. Power is drawnthrough power meters by electrical devices that consume power when theyoperate.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In accordance with the present invention, the disadvantages and problemsassociated with management of power consumption have been substantiallyreduced or eliminated. In particular, the present invention provides asystem that will provide the power customer with an inducement todistribute the customer's power consumption more evenly throughout theday.

In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, a method forarranging to provide power to a customer is provided. An aspect of theinvention includes receiving a request for power for at least one devicespecified by a customer, receiving at least one proposal from an entitydesiring to supply power according to the request for power, determininga best proposal of the at least one proposal, and commanding a powermonitor device associated with the customer to supply power inaccordance with the best proposal.

Another aspect of this invention includes a power monitor device formonitoring power consumption. The power monitor device includes a groupof first electrical ports, each of the first electrical ports isconfigured to receive power, a group of second electrical ports, each ofthe second electrical ports configured to supply power, and acommunications port configured to communicate via a communicationsnetwork. The communications port also communicates with a processor. Theprocessor includes a data storage element, and the processor isconnected to the communications port and at least one signaling device.The processor is configured to receive commands from the communicationsport, to transmit data to the communications port, and to transmitcommands to the at least one signaling device. Each of the at least onesignaling device is connected to an associated one of the plurality offirst electrical ports, an associated one of the plurality of secondelectrical ports, and the processor. Each of the at least one signalingdevice is configured to create a power profile, to transmit commands toat least one electrical outlet, and to transmit the power profile to theprocessor.

Important technical advantages of certain embodiments of the presentinvention include redistributing the timing of power consumption andthus alleviating potential power crises, providing an automatic systemfor users to bid for lower cost power, and providing an automatic systemfor power companies to sell power during low power consumption periods.

Other technical advantages will be readily apparent to one skilled inthe art from the following figures, descriptions and claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For a more complete understanding of the present invention and itsadvantages, reference is now made to the following description, taken inconjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1A is a block diagram illustrating a power control system formanaging power consumption and purchasing power at a reduced rate;

FIG. 1B is a block diagram illustrating a power control system formanaging power consumption and purchasing power at a reduced rate;

FIG. 1C is a block diagram illustrating a power control system forcontrolling the power distribution across a group of power supplycircuits in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 2A is a block diagram illustrating a direct communication powermonitor device in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 2B is a block diagram illustrating an indirect communication powermonitor device in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 3 is a flow chart illustrating a process of installing the directcommunication power monitor device in accordance with the presentinvention;

FIG. 4 is a flow chart illustrating a process of purchasing and usingpower through a power auction in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 5 is a flow chart illustrating a process of conducting a powerauction in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 6A is a flow chart illustrating a process of acting on tokensstored by a direct communication power monitor device 50 in accordancewith the present invention;

FIG. 6B is a flow chart illustrating a process of acting on tokensreceived by an indirect communication power monitor device 60 inaccordance with the present invention;

FIG. 7A is a flow chart illustrating a process for retrievinginformation pertaining to completed contracts in accordance with thepresent invention;

FIG. 7B is a flow chart illustrating a process for bidding on powerauctions in accordance with the present invention; and

FIG. 8 is a flow chart illustrating a process for reducing the amount ofpower consumption during a power shortage in accordance with the presentinvention.

Throughout the figures, unless otherwise stated, the same referencenumerals and characters are used to denote like features, elements,components, or portions of the illustrated embodiments. Moreover, whilethe subject invention will now be described in detail with reference tothe figures, and in connection with the illustrative embodiments,changes and modifications can be made to the described embodimentswithout departing from the true scope and spirit of the subjectinvention as defined by the appended claims.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

FIG. 1A illustrates a power control system 10 for managing powerconsumption and purchasing power at a reduced rate. A building 102including a device 14, a device 16, a device 18, a power supply circuit118, a power supply circuit 120, a fuse box 122, a fuse box power supplyline 123, a power meter 124, a power supply line 130, and a group ofcommunications network connections 28, 30, 31 is provided. Acommunications network 170, a power network 140, a power station 150,including a power production line 151 and a power station communicationsnetwork connection 152 and a power station 160, including a powerproduction line 161 and a power station communications networkconnection 162 are also provided. The communications network 170 can be,for example, the Internet.

The power station 150 and the power station 160 supply power to thepower network 140 through the power production lines 151, 161respectively. The power stations 150, 160 communicate with thecommunications network 170 through the power station communicationsnetwork connections 152, 162 respectively. The power network 140supplies the power meter 124 with power through the power supply line130. The power meter 124 measures the energy flowing through it to thedevices within the building 102. In an alternate embodiment, the powermeter 124 can be used to measure the energy being used by the deviceslocated in a group of buildings. The power meter 124 supplies power tothe fuse box 122 through the fuse box power supply line 123. The fusebox 122 supplies power to the power supply circuits 118, 120. The powersupply circuit 118 supplies power to the device 18, which is alsoconnected to the communications network 170 through the communicationsnetwork connection 31. The power supply circuit 120 supplies power tothe devices 14, 16, which are connected to the communications network170 through the communications network connections 28, 30, respectively.The devices 14, 16, 18 can be any electrical device, including, but notlimited to: washing machines, dryers, dish washers, printing presses,manufacturing presses, computers, telephones, lamps, air conditioners,water heaters, heating systems, and the like.

Each of the devices 14, 16, 18 includes a direct communication powermonitor device 50, shown in FIG. 2A, that communicates with thecommunications network 170 through each of the communications networkconnections 28, 30, 31, respectively. The direct communication powermonitor device 50 of each of the devices 14, 16, 18 can be configured toset up auctions to purchase and sell power on a power auction server 180by sending the power auction server 180 parameterized tokens. Each ofthe devices 14, 16, 18 are configured to supply the associated directcommunication power monitor device 50 with the appropriate informationto set up auctions to purchase and sell power.

Parameterized tokens can be formatted network messages. Theparameterized token may contain a digital certificate and parameters. Adevice that receives the parameterized token can verify the validity ofthe parameterized token by analyzing the digital certificate inassociation with the parameters of the parameterized token. If anyportion of the digital certificate or parameters has been altered thedevice can detect the change and reject the parameterized token. Theparameters of the parameterized token can include, among others, a powerclass, a start time, a latest start time, an end time, an active time, apower amount, a maximum rate, a minimum rate, and a priority value.

In a certain embodiment, the tokens utilize public-private keytechniques to encrypt and authenticate the tokens.

The power auction server 180 includes a central processing unit 182, adata storage unit 184, a database 186 and a power auction servercommunications network connection 188. Auctions for power are conductedon the power auction server 180. Power monitor devices and powerstations set up and bid on power auctions on the power auction server180. The information describing the power station accounts and themonitor device accounts are stored on the data storage unit 184, and thedetails about the power auctions are stored on the database 186. In acertain embodiment, the data storage unit 184 can be eliminated, and thedatabase 186 may contain the information describing the power stationaccounts, the information describing the monitor device accounts, andthe details about the power auctions.

In a certain embodiment, the power auction server 180 can be eliminated,and the functionality of the power auction server 180 can be embedded inthe power stations 150, 160 and the direct communication power monitordevice 50. The devices 14, 16, 18 send messages to set up and bid onauctions directly to the power stations 150, 160, and the power stations150, 160 send messages directly to the devices 14, 16, 18.

In a certain embodiment, the direct communication power monitor device50 of each of the devices 14, 16, 18 is configured to set up auctions topurchase and sell power with any device connected to the communicationsnetwork 170. In a certain embodiment, a computer may act as a proxy forthe direct power monitor devices 14, 16, 18.

FIG. 1B illustrates a power control system 100 for controlling the powerdistribution in a building or across a group of power supply circuits.The building 102 includes a device 104, a device 106, a device 108, agroup of indirect power monitor devices 60, 61, an intelligentelectrical outlet 112, the power supply circuit 118, the power supplycircuit 120, the direct communication power monitor device 50, the fusebox circuit 128, the fuse box circuit 129, the fuse box 122, the fusebox power supply line 123, the power meter 124, the power supply line130, and a power control communications network connection 136. Alsoprovided are the communications network 170, the power network 140, thepower station 150, including the power production line 151 and the powerstation communications network connection 152 and the power station 160,including the power production line 161 and the power stationcommunications network connection 162.

The power station 150 and the power station 160 supply power to thepower network 140 through the power production lines 151, 161respectively. The power stations 150, 160 communicate with thecommunications network 170 through the power station communicationsnetwork connections 152, 162 respectively. The power network 140supplies the power meter 124 with power through the power supply line130. The power meter 124 measures the energy flowing through it to thedevices within the building 102. In an alternate embodiment, the powermeter 124 can be used to measure the energy being used by the deviceslocated in a group of buildings. The power meter 124 supplies power tothe fuse box 122 through the fuse box power supply line 123. The fusebox 122 supplies power to the fuse box circuits 128, 129. The directcommunication power monitor device 50 receives power from the fuse boxcircuits 128, 129 and supplies that power to the power supply circuits118, 120, respectively. The direct communication power monitor device 50is connected to the communications network 170 through the power monitordevice communications network connection 136. The direct communicationpower monitor device 50 is shown in more detail in FIG. 2A and furtherdescribed below. The power supply circuit 120, shown in FIG. 1B,supplies power to the indirect power monitor devices 60, 61, which inturn supply power to the devices 104, 106. The power supply circuit 118supplies power to the intelligent electrical outlet 112, which in turnsupplies power to the device 108. The intelligent electrical outlet 112contains the indirect power monitor device 60. The indirectcommunication power monitor devices 60, 61 can, and typically will, besubstantially identical. The indirect communication power monitor device60 is shown in detail in FIG. 2B and further described below. The powersupply circuits 118, 120 are used to transmit the parameterized tokensbetween the device 50, and the devices 60, 61, 112.

In a certain embodiment, the intelligent electrical outlet 112 isconfigured to provide power to a device plugged into the intelligentelectrical outlet if the intelligent electrical outlet receives acommand to supply power, or refrain from providing power to the deviceplugged into the intelligent electrical outlet if the intelligentelectrical outlet receives a command to stop supplying power.

The power auction server 180, shown in FIG. 1B, includes the centralprocessing unit 182, the data storage unit 184, the database 186 and thepower auction server communications network connection 188. Auctions forpower are conducted on the power auction server 180. Power monitordevices and power stations set up and bid on power auctions on the powerauction server 180. The information describing the power stationaccounts and the monitor device accounts are stored on the data storageunit 184, and the details about the power auctions are stored on thedatabase 186. In another certain embodiment, the data storage unit 184can be eliminated, and the database 186 may contain the informationdescribing the power station accounts, the information describing themonitor device accounts, and the details about the power auctions.

In a certain embodiment, the power auction server 180 can be eliminated,and the functionality of the power auction server 180 can be embedded inthe power stations 150, 160, the direct communication power monitordevice 50 sends messages directly to the power stations 150, 160, andthe power stations 150, 160 send messages directly to the directcommunication power monitor device 50. In another certain embodiment,the messages are parameterized tokens.

In a certain embodiment, the direct communication power monitor device50 is configured to set up auctions to purchase and sell power with anydevice connected to the communications network 170. In another certainembodiment, the direct communication power monitor device 50 isconfigured to set up auctions to purchase and sell power on the powercontrol server 180.

FIG. 1C illustrates a power control system 101 for controlling the powerdistribution in a building or across a group of power supply circuits.Building 102 includes a device 104, a device 106, a device 108, thegroup of indirect power monitor devices 60, 61, 62, the power supplycircuit 118, the power supply circuit 120, the fuse box 122, the fusebox power supply line 123, the power meter 124, the power supply line130, a power supply circuit 132, a computer 134, and a computercommunications network connection 135. Also provided are thecommunications network 170, the power network 140, the power station150, including the power production line 151 and the power stationcommunications network connection 152 and the power station 160,including the power production line 161 and the power stationcommunications network connection 162.

The power station 150 and the power station 160 supply power to thepower network 140 through the power production lines 151, 161respectively. The power stations 150, 160 communicate with thecommunications network 170 through the power station communicationsnetwork connections 152, 162 respectively. The power network 140supplies the power meter 124 with power through the power supply line130. The power meter 124 measures the energy flowing through it to thedevices within the building 102. In an alternate embodiment, the powermeter 124 can be used to measure the energy being used by the deviceslocated in a group of buildings. The power meter 124 supplies power tothe fuse box 122 through the fuse box power supply line 123. The fusebox 122 supplies power to the power supply circuits 118, 120. The powersupply circuit 120 supplies power to the indirect power monitor devices60, 61, which in turn supply power to the devices 32, 34. The powersupply circuit 118 supplies power to the indirect power monitor device62, which in turn supplies power to the device 36. The indirectcommunication power monitor devices 60, 61, 62 can be and typically aresubstantially identical. The indirect communication power monitor device60 is shown in detail in FIG. 2B and described more fully below. Thepower supply circuit 132 in FIG. 1C supplies power to the computer 134,which is also connected to the communications network 170 through thecomputer communications network connection 135. The power supplycircuits 118, 120, 132 are used to transmit the parameterized tokensbetween the computer 134, and the devices 60, 61, 62.

In an alternate embodiment, the computer 134 may be directly connectedto the device 32 by a communications link 137, shown by the dashed line,if the device 32 contains a direct communication power monitor device50. In this case, the indirect communication monitor device 60 may beeliminated.

The power auction server 180 includes the central processing unit 182,the data storage unit 184, the database 186 and the power auction servercommunications network connection 188. Auctions for power are conductedon the power auction server 180. Power monitor devices and powerstations set up and bid on power auctions on the power auction server180. The information describing the power station accounts and themonitor device accounts are stored on the data storage unit 184, and thedetails about the power auctions are stored on the database 186.

In a certain embodiment, the power auction server 180 can be eliminatedand the functionality of the power auction server 180 can be embedded inthe power stations 150, 160 and the computer 134. The computer 134 sendsmessages directly to the power stations 150, 160, and the power stations150, 160 send messages directly to the computer 134. In another certainembodiment, the messages are parameterized tokens. In yet anothercertain embodiment, the data storage unit 184 can be eliminated, and thedatabase 186 may contain the information describing the power stationaccounts, the information describing the monitor device accounts, andthe details about the power auctions.

In a certain embodiment, the computer 134 acts as a proxy for theindirect power monitor devices 60, 61, 62. In a certain embodiment, thecomputer 134 is configured to set up auctions to purchase and sell powerwith any device connected to the communications network 170. In anothercertain embodiment, the computer 134 is configured to set up auctions topurchase and sell power on the power auction server 180.

FIG. 2A illustrates the direct communication power monitor device 50 ingreater detail. The direct communication power monitor device 50includes a central processing unit 202, a memory device 204, acommunications port 205, a data storage unit 206, a group of powermonitor, signaling and switching devices 208, 210, 212, a group of powersupply ports 214, 216, 218, and a group of device power ports 220, 222,224. The power supply ports 214, 216, 218 are connected to the devicepower ports 220, 222, 224, respectively, through the power monitor,signaling and switching devices 208, 210, 212, respectively. There canbe any number of power supply ports, device power ports and powermonitor, signaling and switching devices. In a certain embodiment, thenumber of power supply ports, device power ports and power monitor,signaling and switching devices is equal. The power monitor, signalingand switching devices 208, 210, 212 are controlled by the centralprocessing unit 202. The central processing unit 202 receives commandsfrom the communications network 170 through the communications port 205.The communications port 205 is connected to the communications network170 by the power control communications network connection 136. Thepower monitor, signaling and switching devices 208, 210, 212 areconfigured to send parameterized tokens to devices or electrical outletsconnected to one of the device power ports 220, 222, 224 or the powersupply ports 214, 216, 218, receive parameterized tokens from devices orelectrical outlets connected to one of the device power ports 220, 222,224 or the power supply ports 214, 216, 218, supply power to devices orelectrical outlets connected to one of the device power ports 220, 222,224, stop supplying power to devices or electrical outlets connected toone of the device power ports 220, 222, 224, and monitor the amount ofpower supplied to devices or electrical outlets connected to one of thedevice power ports 220, 222, 224. In a certain embodiment, the powermonitor, signaling and switching devices 208, 210, 212 send and receiveparameterized tokens using Long Range Ethernet which was developed byCisco System Inc., 170 West Tasman Drive, San Jose, Calif. 95134-1619. Aunit identifier is stored in the memory device 204 of the power monitordevice.

In a certain embodiment, the direct communication power monitor device50 can be implemented on an ASIC, a general purpose processor, amicro-processor, a programmable logic device, or a field programmablegate array, among others. In another certain embodiment the powermonitor, signaling and switching devices 208, 210, 212 are configured toact as on-off switches.

FIG. 2B illustrates the indirect communication power monitor device 60in greater detail. The indirect communication power monitor device 60includes a central processing unit 252, a memory device 254, a datastorage unit 256, a power monitor, signaling and switching device 258, apower supply port 264, and a device power port 270. The power supplyport 264 is connected to the device power port 270 through the powermonitor, signaling and switching device 258. There can be any number ofpower supply ports, device power ports and power monitor, signaling andswitching devices. In a certain embodiment, the number of power supplyports, device power ports and power monitor, signaling and switchingdevices is equal. The power monitor, signaling and switching device 258is controlled by the central processing unit 252. The power monitor,signaling and switching device 258 is configured to send parameterizedtokens to devices or electrical outlets connected to one of the devicepower port 270 or the power supply port 264, receive parameterizedtokens from devices or electrical outlets connected to one of the devicepower port 270 or the power supply port 264, supply power to devices orelectrical outlets connected to one of the device power port 270 or thepower supply port 264, and stop supplying power to devices or electricaloutlets connected to one of the device power port 270 or the powersupply port 264. In a certain embodiment, the power monitor, signalingand switching device 258 sends and receives parameterized tokens usingLong Range Ethernet which was developed by Cisco System Inc., 170 WestTasman Drive, San Jose, Calif. 95134-1619. A unit identifier is storedin the memory device 254 of the power monitor device. The mainstructural difference between the direct communication power monitordevice 50 and the indirect communication power monitor device 60 is thatthe direct communication power monitor device 50 has the communicationsport 205 and the power monitor communications network connection 136,whereas the indirect communication power monitor device 60 does not.Therefore, the direct communication power monitor device 50 cancommunicate with other devices through the communication port 205 orthrough the device power ports 220, 222, 224 or the power supply ports214, 216, 218, while the indirect communication power monitor device 60may only communicate with other devices through the device power port270 or the power supply port 264.

In a certain embodiment, the indirect communication power monitor device60 can be implemented on an ASIC, a general purpose processor, amicro-processor, a programmable logic device, or a field programmablegate array, among others. In another certain embodiment, the indirectcommunication power monitor devices 60 can be nested together, thusproviding many levels of device control. In another certain embodimentthe power monitor, signaling and switching device 258 is configured toact as on-off switches.

FIG. 3 illustrates the process 300 of installing a power monitor devicethat does not exist within a device. A customer requests the powermonitor device, either a direct communication power monitor device 50 orthe indirect communication power monitor device 60, from a vendor atstep 302. The power monitor device is physically installed at step 304.The power monitor device can be physically installed in an electricalcircuit. For example, the direct communication power monitor device 50of FIG. 1B can be physically installed between the fuse box and thepower supply circuits. The power supply circuits are severed into thefuse box circuits 128, 129 and the power supply circuits 118, 120, shownin FIG. 1B. As shown in conjunction with FIG. 2A, the fuse box circuits128, 129 are connected to the power supply ports 216, 218, and the powersupply circuits 118, 120 are connected to the device power ports 222,224.

Returning to FIG. 3, the building 102 is fitted with intelligentelectrical outlets at step 306. The power monitoring and signal deviceslocated within the direct communication power monitor device 50 or theindirect communication power monitor device 60 can turn an intelligentelectrical outlet on or off through the power supply circuits. Turningan intelligent electrical outlet on will allow a device which is pluggedinto the intelligent electrical outlet, to draw power through theintelligent electrical outlet. If an intelligent electrical outlet isoff, no power can be drawn through it. In a certain embodiment, thefunctionality of the intelligent electrical outlets is embedded within adevice.

In a certain embodiment, the power monitor device controls a group ofdevices where some of the group of devices include the indirectcommunication power monitor device 60 or the direct communication powermonitor device 50. For each of the devices that include the indirectcommunication power monitor device 60 or the direct communication powermonitor device 50, the intelligent electrical outlets do not have to beinstalled, rather any type of electrical outlets can be used.

At step 307, if the power monitor device is the direct communicationpower monitor device 50, the communications port 205 of the directcommunication power monitor device 50 is connected to the communicationsnetwork 170. The physical cable linking the direct communication powermonitor device 50 to the communications network 170 is connected to thecommunications port 205 of the direct communication power monitor device50. The direct communication power monitor device 50 is then able tocommunicate with the communications network 170.

At step 308, the customer can register the direct communication powermonitor devices 50 and the indirect communication power monitor device60. To register the direct communication power monitor device 50, a unitidentifier is stored in a non-volatile portion of the memory device 204associated with the direct communication power monitor device 50 and isassociated with an account of the direct communication power monitordevice 50. To register the indirect communication power monitor device60, a unit identifier is stored in a non-volatile portion of the memorydevice 254 associated with the indirect communication power monitordevice 60 and is associated with an account of the indirectcommunication power monitor device 60. In a certain embodiment, the unitidentifier of the indirect communication power monitor device 60 isstored in a volatile portion of the memory device 254 of the indirectcommunication power monitor device 60. In another certain embodiment,the unit identifier of the direct communication power monitor device 50is stored in a volatile portion of the memory device 204 of the directcommunication power monitor device 50.

For any system using an indirect communication power monitor device 60there is at least one associated direct communication power monitordevice 50. At this time, the customer may configure the directcommunication power monitor devices 50 and the indirect communicationpower monitor devices 60 by specifying the devices that the directcommunication power monitor devices 50 and the indirect communicationpower monitor devices 60 will be used with. For example, the indirectcommunication power monitor device 60 shown in FIG. 1B should beconfigured to be used in association with the device 104. In a certainembodiment, the geographical location of the direct communication powermonitor devices 50 and the indirect communication power monitor devices60 are provided. In another embodiment, the geographical locations ofthe devices 14, 16, 18, 32, 34, 36, 104, 106, 108 to be used with thedirect communication power monitor devices 50 and the indirectcommunication power monitor devices 60 are provided. For each device 14,16, 18, 32, 34, 36, 104, 106, 108 associated with the directcommunication power monitor devices 50 and the indirect communicationpower monitor devices 60, the customer indicates a device name, theelectrical outlet the device is connected to, and the device settingtuple. Each device setting tuple includes a device setting and a powerprofile for the device setting. The power profile indicates the amountof energy the device 14, 16, 18, 32, 34, 36, 104, 106, 108 uses over theexecution of the associated device cycle. For example, to set up thedevice 108 shown in FIG. 1B, the customer would indicate that thecustomer wanted to set up the device 108, that the device 108 isconnected to the intelligent electrical outlet 112, and that the devicehad a first device setting tuple and a second device setting tuple. In acertain embodiment, the device setting tuples are pre-programmed foreach device. In another embodiment, the devices 14, 16, 18, 32, 34, 36,104, 106, 108 to be used with the direct communication power monitordevice 50 register themselves with the direct communication powermonitor device 50. In another embodiment, the devices 32, 34, 36, 104,106 to be used with the indirect communication power monitor device 60register themselves with the indirect communication power monitor device60. After step 308 is completed, the installation of the power monitordevice is complete and the process 300 exits.

In an alternate embodiment, the device is set up by indicatinginformation that may include the device make, the device model, thedevice year, and the electrical outlet the device is connected to. Thepower auction server 180 then consults with a database which containsthe device setting tuples for devices of that device make. The devicesetting tuples for the indicated device make, the device model, and thedevice year are downloaded, completing the installation. In anotheralternate embodiment, the device setting tuples are stored in the datastorage device 206 of the direct communication power monitor device 50.

FIG. 4 illustrates the process 400 of purchasing and using or sellingpower through a power auction. At step 402, the direct communicationpower monitor device 50 establishes the type of auction that will be setup. The direct communication power monitor device 50 can set up anauction to purchase or sell power. Once the direct communication powermonitor device 50 determines whether it is setting up an auction to buyor sell power, the direct communication power monitor device 50establishes a power consumption time frame, an amount of power and aclose time for the auction at step 404. The time frame is the windowwithin which the power will be used by the device. The close time is thetime when the auction is complete. No bids are accepted for the auctionafter the close time.

At step 406, the direct communication power monitor device 50establishes the minimum or maximum price for the auction. If the directcommunication power monitor device 50 is establishing an auction to sellpower, the direct communication power monitor device 50 sets a minimumprice for the power. If the direct communication power monitor device 50is establishing an auction to purchase power, the direct communicationpower monitor device 50 sets a maximum price for the power.

In a certain embodiment, the direct communication power monitor device50 can establish an auction to purchase or sell power at the bestavailable rate.

In a certain embodiment, the direct communication power monitor device50 can establish an auction to purchase power to be supplied to it on abest effort basis, such that the power station will only supply power tothe direct communication power monitor device 50 if the power station isnot experiencing a power shortage.

At step 408, the direct communication power monitor device 50 formatsthe parameterized token to be sent to the power auction server 180. Thedirect communication power monitor device 50 specifies the type ofauction, a close time for the auction, the power consumption time frame,the amount of power, and the minimum price for the power if the auctionis an auction to sell power or the maximum price for the power if theauction is an auction to purchase power. Once formatted, theparameterized token is sent to the power auction server 180 where theauction is established.

The power stations 150, 160 and other direct communication power monitordevices 50 can bid for the power until the close time for the auction.No bids are accepted after the close time for the auction.

In an alternate embodiment, the direct communication power monitordevice 50 does not specify a maximum price for the power in an auctionto purchase power, but rather simply specifies a time frame within whichthe direct communication power monitor device 50 needs the power, andallows the power stations 150, 160 and other direct communication powermonitor devices 50 bid to supply the power. In another alternateembodiment, the direct communication power monitor device 50 does notspecify a minimum price for the power in an auction to sell power, butrather simply specifies a time frame within which the directcommunication power monitor device 50 needs the power, and allows thepower stations 150, 160 and other direct communication power monitordevices 50 to bid to supply the power.

In another alternate embodiment, the direct communication power monitordevice 50 specifies a maximum price, a reserve price, an auction closetime, and a time frame for the power auction. The maximum price acts asan initial bid for the power, but the direct communication power monitordevice 50 need not purchase the power after the close of the powerauction until the reserve price is met. If the reserve price is met, thedirect communication power monitor device 50 must purchase the power. Ifthe reserve price is not met, the direct communication power monitordevice 50 has the option to purchase the power, but can refuse. Thepower stations 150, 160 and other direct communication power monitordevices 50 can bid to supply the power until the close time of theauction. No bids are accepted after the close time for the auction.

At step 410, the auction closes. Once the close time passes, no bids areaccepted. After the close time has passed, the power auction server 180determines whether there are any acceptable bids and informs the directcommunication power monitor device 50 at step 412. An acceptable bid foran auction to purchase power is a bid to supply the requested power fora price which is lower than or equal to the maximum price, and anacceptable bid for an auction to sell power is a bid to purchase therequested power for a price which is greater than or equal to theminimum price. If there was an acceptable bid, the process 400 advancesto step 415. If there were no acceptable bids, the process 400 advancesto step 414.

In an alternate embodiment, the direct communication power monitordevice 50 will be able to accept input to choose to accept bids whichare greater than the maximum price in auctions to purchase power or lessthan the minimum price in auction to sell power. In another alternateembodiment, bids will be accepted outside the power consumption timeframe.

At step 414, the direct communication power monitor device 50 is giventhe opportunity to set up another auction. If the direct communicationpower monitor device 50 wants to set up another auction, the process 400advances to step 402. If the direct communication power monitor device50 does not want to set up another auction, the process 400 exits.

At step 415, the direct communication power monitor device 50 determineswhether the auction was an auction to sell power or an auction topurchase power. If the auction was an auction to purchase power, theprocess 400 advances to step 416. If the auction was an auction to sellpower, the process 400 advances to step 420. In an auction to purchasepower, power itself is not purchased. A token that outlines conditionsunder which power may be consumed by a device at a preferable rate ispurchased. Conversely, in an auction to sell power, power itself is notsold. A token that outlines conditions under which power may be consumedby a device at a preferable rate is sold back to the power auctionserver 180.

At step 416, the direct communication power monitor device 50 sets theconditions to run the device or devices that consume the power purchasedin the power auction. The direct communication power monitor device 50receives a parameterized token setting the conditions for powerconsumption in accordance with the power auction and stores theinformation contained in the parameterized token in the data storagedevice 206. If the device includes the indirect communication powermonitor device 60, the direct communication power monitor device 50formats a parameterized token, and the associated one of the powermonitor, signaling and switching devices 208, 210, 212 of the directcommunication power monitor device 50 send the parameterized token tothe indirect communication power monitor device 60 through theassociated one of the group of device power ports 220, 222, 224informing the indirect communication power monitor device 60 of theconditions of the auction. The device associated with the indirectcommunication power monitor device 60 runs according to the conditionsestablished by the parameterized token. If the device does not includethe indirect communication power monitor device 60, the device should beset to the “run when power available” setting. When the device is set tothe “run when power available” setting, the device will run if theintelligent electrical outlet 112 that provides the device with power isturned on. At the time specified by the winning bid in the powerauction, the intelligent electrical outlet 112 will be turned on by thedirect communication power monitor device 50. After the time frame ends,the intelligent electrical outlet 112 is turned off by the directcommunication power monitor device 50. If the device is associated withthe direct communication power monitor device 50, the directcommunication power monitor device 50 causes the device to run duringthe appropriate time frame. After the time frame comes to a close, thedirect communication power monitor device 50 sends a power profile tothe power auction server 180. The power profile contains the amount ofpower consumed by the associated device over each discrete period oftime (i.e. sampling period). Alternatively, the power profile caninclude the amount of energy consumed during the time frame.

In a certain embodiment, the direct communication power monitor device50 may transmit a token informing a second indirect communication powermonitor device 60 of the conditions of the auction through a firstindirect communication power monitor device 60, such that the directcommunication power monitor device 50 transmits a parameterized token tothe first indirect communication power monitor device 60, which isassociated with the second indirect communication power monitor device60, and the first indirect communication power monitor device 60transmits the parameterized token to the second indirect communicationpower monitor device 60.

At step 420, the direct communication power monitor device 50 acceptsthe bid made by a power station or direct communication power monitordevice 50 in the power auction. In an auction to sell power, poweritself is not purchased. A token that outlines conditions under whichpower may be consumed by a device at a preferable rate is sold back tothe power auction server 180. The direct communication power monitordevice 50 updates the information pertaining to the token in its memoryand sends an updated parameterized token to the power station 150, 160.Once the direct communication power monitor device 50 accepts the bid,the process 400 exits.

In an alternate embodiment, the direct communication power monitordevice 50 can participate in many auctions at the same time.

FIG. 5 illustrates a process 500 for bidding on power auctions. Thedirect communication power monitor device 50 begins the process 500 byconnecting with the power auction server 180 at step 502. The directcommunication power monitor device 50 sends an encrypted token to thepower auction server 180 containing its digital signature. The digitalsignature of the direct communication power monitor device 50 uniquelyidentifies the direct communication power monitor device 50 to the powerauction server 180. Before the token is sent, the direct communicationpower monitor device 50 encrypts the token using public-privateencryption techniques. Upon receipt of the encrypted token, the powerauction server 180 decrypts the token using public-private encryptiontechniques. The power auction server 180 authenticates the directcommunication power monitor device 50 by using its digital signaturecontained within the decrypted token. Once the direct communicationpower monitor device 50 is authenticated, the process 500 advances tostep 504.

At step 504 the direct communication power monitor device 50 specifiesthe initial bid parameters for the power auction. The directcommunication power monitor device 50 may specify a maximum price forthe power if the auction is an auction to purchase power, a minimumprice for the power if the auction is an auction to sell power, the timeframe within which the power will be consumed, the amount of power to bepurchased or sold, and the close time for the bid. Once the relevantparameters are specified, the process 500 advances to step 506.

At step 506, the direct communication power monitor device 50 formatsthe specified parameters into a parameterized token and sends the tokento the power auction server 180. Once received by the power auctionserver 180, the power auction server 180 uses the parameters containedwithin the parameterized token to establish the constraints for anauction. Once the parameterized token is sent to the power auctionserver 180, the process 500 advances to step 508.

In an alternate embodiment, the power stations 150, 160 can establish anauction to sell power at a particular preferable rate during aparticular time. In another alternate embodiment, the power auctionserver 180 is eliminated, and the direct communication power monitordevice 50 sends the parameterized token directly to the power stations150, 160.

At step 508, the direct communication power monitor device 50 waits forthe close time for the auction to elapse. If the direct communicationpower monitor device 50 receives a bid before the close time for theauction, the process 500 advances to step 510. If the directcommunication power monitor device 50 does not receive a bid before theclose time for the auction, the process 500 advances to step 516.

At step 510, the direct communication power monitor device 50 determineswhether a better contract should be negotiated through an additionalauction. If the direct communication power monitor device 50 determinesthat an additional auction should be conducted, the process 500 advancesto step 518. If the direct communication power monitor device 50determines that no additional auction should be conducted, the process500 advances to step 512.

At step 512, the direct communication power monitor device 50 obtainsand stores a token specifying the terms agreed upon during the powerauction. The direct communication power monitor device 50 sends anencrypted token to the power auction server 180 including its digitalsignature and a message to the power auction server 180 informing thepower auction server 180 that the direct communication power monitordevice 50 accepts the bid that was already submitted. Once the directcommunication power monitor device 50 sends the token, the process 500advances to step 514.

At step 514, the direct communication power monitor device 50 waits forthe power auction server 180 to transmit one or more tokens specifyingthe terms governing the power consumption agreed upon by the powerauction. Once the direct communication power monitor device 50 receivesthe token(s) from the power auction server 180, the direct communicationpower monitor device 50 stores the information including start time, endtime, and amount of power, in the data storage device 206 of the directcommunication power monitor device 50 and establishes a trigger timebased on the information contained within the token. The trigger timealerts the direct communication power monitor device 50 when an actionshould take place. For example, if the token is received by the directpower monitor device 50 included within the device 14, and specifiesthat power can be used between the times of 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM on June12, the direct communication power monitor device 50 establishes a firsttrigger time at 1:00 PM on June 12, and a second trigger time at 2:00 PMon June 12. If a token is being sold back to the power auction server180, the trigger established in relation to the token being sold back tothe power auction server 180 must be altered accordingly. After thedirect communication power monitor device 50 stores the contents of thetoken, the process 500 ends.

At step 516, having failed to receive a bid on the most recent auctionwithin the allotted time, the direct communication power monitor device50 determines if an acceptable bid was negotiated in a prior auction. Ifan acceptable bid was negotiated in a prior auction, the process 500advances to step 510. At step 510, if an earlier acceptable bid wasreceived but no response was received in the most recent auction, amodified bid between the acceptable bid and the bid receiving noresponse can be sent to auction in steps 518 and 520. Otherwise theearlier acceptable bid is used and the process continues at step 512. Ifno acceptable bid was negotiated in a prior auction, the process 500advances directly to step 518.

At step 518, the direct communication power monitor device 50 determineswhether the parameters defining the auction should be modified. If thedirect communication power monitor device 50 determines that theparameters defining the auction should be modified, the process 500advances to step 520. If the direct communication power monitor device50 determines that the parameters defining the auction should not bemodified, the process 500 advances to step 522. At step 522, the directcommunication power monitor device 50 alerts the user of the system thatno power could be purchased or sold with the parameters specified.

At step 520, the direct communication power monitor device 50 modifiesthe parameter describing the auction. The price, time frame, amount ofpower, or any other parameter describing the auction could be altered toobtain a contract or a better contract. After the parameters arespecified, the process 500 advances to step 506.

In an alternate embodiment, the direct communication power monitordevice 50 can participate in many auctions at the same time.

FIG. 6A illustrates a process 600 of acting on tokens stored by a directcommunication power monitor device 50. The process 600 begins at step602. If the direct communication power monitor device 50 detects that atrigger time elapses, the process 600 advances to step 603. If notrigger time passes, the process 600 remains at step 602.

At step 603, the direct communication power monitor device 50 obtainsthe tokens associated with the trigger time from the data storage device206. The direct communication power monitor device 50 removes each tokenassociated with the trigger time from the data storage device 206 andadds it to a triggered token list. After the direct communication powermonitor device 50 completes searching the data storage device 206, theprocess 600 advances to step 604.

At step 604, the direct communication power monitor device 50 determineswhether the first token stored in the triggered token list is a poweroff token. If the first token in the triggered token list is a power offtoken, the process 600 advances to step 606. If the first token in thetriggering token list is not a power off token, the process 600 advancesto step 608.

At step 606, the direct communication power monitor device 50 transmitsthe power off token to an appropriate device depending on thedestination device of the power off token. The direct communicationpower monitor device 50 transmits an appropriate message to anappropriate device or takes an appropriate action depending on thedestination device of the power off token. If the appropriate device isconfigured to receive tokens, such as an indirect communication powermonitor device 60, a direct communication power monitor device 50, anintelligent electrical outlet 112, or the like, the direct communicationpower monitor device 50 transmits a power off token to the appropriatedevice. The power off token is transmitted through an appropriate one ofthe group of power monitor, signaling and switching devices 208, 210,212, and an appropriate one of the device power ports 220, 222, 224, tothe appropriate device. If the appropriate device is not configured toreceive tokens, upon receipt of the power off token the directcommunication power monitor device 50 discontinues providing thedestination device of the power off token with power. After the directcommunication power monitor device 50 transmits the appropriate message,the first token stored in the triggered token list is removed from thetriggered token list, and the process 600 advances to step 626.

In a certain embodiment, if the appropriate device is not configured toreceive tokens, upon receipt of the power off token the directcommunication power monitor device 50 stops recording the power suppliedto the destination device of the power off token in the power profile.

At step 608, the direct communication power monitor device 50 determineswhether the first token stored in the triggered token list is a power ontoken. If the first token in the triggered token list is a power ontoken, the process 600 advances to step 610. If the first token in thetriggering token list is not a power on token, the process 600 advancesto step 612.

At step 610, the direct communication power monitor device 50 transmitsthe power on token to an appropriate device depending on the destinationdevice of the power on token. The direct communication power monitordevice 50 transmits an appropriate message to the appropriate device ortakes an appropriate action depending on the destination device of thepower on token. If the appropriate device is configured to receivetokens, such as an indirect communication power monitor device 60, adirect communication power monitor device 50, an intelligent electricaloutlet 112, or the like, the direct communication power monitor device50 transmits a power on token to the appropriate device. The power ontoken is transmitted through an appropriate one of the group of powermonitor, signaling and switching devices 208, 210, 212, and anappropriate one of the device power ports 220, 222, 224, to theappropriate device. The direct communication power monitor device 50begins providing the destination device of the power on token withpower. After the direct communication power monitor device 50 transmitsthe appropriate message, the first token stored in the triggered tokenlist is removed from the triggered token list, and the process 600advances to step 626.

At step 612, the direct communication power monitor device 50 determineswhether the first token stored in the triggered token list is a recordpower token. If the first token in the triggered token list is a recordpower token, the process 600 advances to step 614. If the first token inthe triggered token list is not a record power token, the process 600advances to step 616.

At step 614, the direct communication power monitor device 50 transmitsthe record profile token to an appropriate device depending on thedestination device of the record profile token. The direct communicationpower monitor device 50 transmits an appropriate message to theappropriate device or takes an appropriate action depending on thedestination device of the record profile token. If the appropriatedevice is an indirect communication power monitor device 60 or a directcommunication power monitor device 50, the direct communication powermonitor device 50 transmits a record power token to the appropriatedevice. The record profile token is transmitted through an appropriateone of the group of power monitor, signaling and switching devices 208,210, 212, and an appropriate one of the device power ports 220, 222,224, to the appropriate device. Otherwise the direct communication powermonitor device 50 begins recording a power profile in the appropriateone of the group of power monitor, signaling and switching devices 208,210, 212 of the direct communication power monitor device 50 for thedestination device of the record profile token. After the directcommunication power monitor device 50 transmits the appropriate message,the first token stored in the triggered token list is removed from thetriggered token list, and the process 600 advances to step 626.

In a certain embodiment, the direct communication power monitor device50 begins recording a power profile upon receipt of a record powertoken.

At step 616, the direct communication power monitor device 50 determineswhether the first token stored in the triggered token list is a reducepower token. If the first token in the triggered token list is a reducepower token, the process 600 advances to step 618. If the first token inthe triggering token list is not a reduce power token, the process 600advances to step 620.

At step 618, the direct communication power monitor device 50 transmitsthe reduce power token to an appropriate device depending on thedestination device of the reduce power token. Reduced power tokens arediscussed below with reference to FIG. 8. The direct communication powermonitor device 50 transmits an appropriate message to the appropriatedevice or takes an appropriate action depending on the destinationdevice of the reduce power token. If the appropriate device is anindirect communication power monitor device 60 or a direct communicationpower monitor device 50, the direct communication power monitor device50 transmits a reduce power token to the appropriate device indicatingthe amount of power consumption that must be reduced. The reduce powertoken is transmitted through an appropriate one of the group of powermonitor, signaling and switching devices 208, 210, 212, and anappropriate one of the device power ports 220, 222, 224, to theappropriate device. If the appropriate device is the intelligentelectrical outlet 112, the direct communication power monitor device 50issues a power off token if the power being used by the device attachedto the intelligent electrical outlet 112 must be discontinued to satisfythe reduce power token. The power off token is transmitted through anappropriate one of the group of power monitor, signaling and switchingdevices 208, 210, 212, and an appropriate one of the device power ports220, 222, 224, to the appropriate device. Otherwise, the directcommunication power monitor device 50 discontinues providing power toany device, appliance or the like, if the power being used by thedevice, appliance or the like must be discontinued to satisfy the reducepower token. After the direct communication power monitor device 50transmits the appropriate message, the first token stored in thetriggered token list is removed from the triggered token list, and theprocess 600 advances to step 626.

At step 620, the direct communication power monitor device 50 determineswhether the first token stored in the triggered token list is a powerstatus token. If the first token in the triggered token list is a powerstatus token, the process 600 advances to step 622. If the first tokenin the triggering token list is not a power status token, the process600 advances to step 624.

At step 622, the direct communication power monitor device 50 transmitsthe power status token to an appropriate device depending on thedestination device of the power status token. The direct communicationpower monitor device 50 transmits an appropriate message to theappropriate device or takes an appropriate action depending on thedestination device of the power status token. If the appropriate deviceis an indirect communication power monitor device 60 or a directcommunication power monitor device 50, the direct communication powermonitor device 50 transmits a power status token to the appropriatedevice. The power status token is transmitted through an appropriate oneof the group of power monitor, signaling and switching devices 208, 210,212, and an appropriate one of the device power ports 220, 222, 224, tothe appropriate device. Otherwise, the direct communication powermonitor device 50 transmits the power profile associated with thedestination device of the power status token to the power auction server180. After the direct communication power monitor device 50 transmitsthe appropriate message, the first token stored in the triggered tokenlist is removed from the triggered token list, and the process 600advances to step 626.

At step 624, the direct communication power monitor device 50 reports anerror message. Once the direct communication power monitor device 50reports the error, the process 600 advances to step 626.

At step 626, the direct communication power monitor device 50 determinesif there are any tokens remaining in the triggered token list. If anytokens remain in the triggered token list, the process 600 advances tostep 604. If no tokens remain in the triggered token list, the process600 advances to step 602.

In an alternate embodiment, the record power token can be eliminated,and the power on token can include the functionality of the record powertoken. For example, if a power on token stored by the directcommunication power monitor device 50 of the device 14 is triggered, thedirect communication power monitor device 50 of the device 14 can send apower on token to a controller of the device 14 causing it to beginoperating, and the direct communication power monitor device 50 of thedevice 14 can begin recording a power profile for the device 14.

In another alternate embodiment, the power status token can beeliminated, and the power off token can include the functionality of thepower status token. For example, if a power off token stored by thedirect communication power monitor device 50 of the device 14 istriggered, the direct communication power monitor device 50 of thedevice 14 can send a power off token to a controller of the device 14causing it to cease operation, and the direct communication powermonitor device 50 of the device 14 can send the power profile for thedevice 14 if it has been recording one.

In a certain embodiment, additional device specific tokens may be used.

FIG. 6B illustrates a process 650 of acting on tokens received by anindirect communication power monitor device 60. The process 650 beginsat step 652. If the indirect communication power monitor device 60receives a token, the process 650 advances to step 654. Otherwise, theprocess 650 remains at step 652.

At step 654, the indirect communication power monitor device 60determines whether the first token stored in the triggered token list isa power off token. If the first token in the triggered token list is apower off token, the process 650 advances to step 656. If the firsttoken in the triggering token list is not a power off token, the process650 advances to step 658.

At step 656, the indirect communication power monitor device 60transmits the power off token to an appropriate device depending on thedestination device of the power off token. The indirect communicationpower monitor device 60 transmits an appropriate message to theappropriate device or takes an appropriate action depending on thedestination device of the power off token. If the appropriate device isconfigured to receive tokens, such as an indirect communication powermonitor device 60, a direct communication power monitor device 50, anintelligent electrical outlet 112, or the like, the indirectcommunication power monitor device 60 transmits a power off token to theappropriate device through the power monitor, signaling and switchingdevice 258 and the device power port 270 to the appropriate device. Ifthe appropriate device is not configured to receive tokens, the indirectcommunication power monitor device 60 discontinues providing thedestination device of the power off token with power. After the indirectcommunication power monitor device 60 transmits the appropriate message,the first token stored in the triggered token list is removed from thetriggered token list, and the process 650 advances to step 676.

At step 658, the indirect communication power monitor device 60determines whether the first token stored in the triggered token list isa power on token. If the first token in the triggered token list is apower on token, the process 650 advances to step 660. If the first tokenin the triggering token list is not a power on token, the process 650advances to step 652.

At step 660, the indirect communication power monitor device 60transmits the power on token to an appropriate device depending on thedestination device of the power on token. The indirect communicationpower monitor device 60 transmits an appropriate message to theappropriate device or takes an appropriate action depending on thedestination device of the power on token. If the appropriate device isconfigured to receive tokens, such as an indirect communication powermonitor device 60, a direct communication power monitor device 50, anintelligent electrical outlet 112, or the like, the indirectcommunication power monitor device 60 transmits a power on token to theappropriate device through the power monitor, signaling and switchingdevice 258 and the device power port 270 to the appropriate device. Theindirect communication power monitor device 60 begins providing thedestination device of the power on token with power. After the indirectcommunication power monitor device 60 transmits the appropriate message,the first token stored in the triggered token list is removed from thetriggered token list, and the process 650 advances to step 676.

At step 662, the indirect communication power monitor device 60determines whether the first token stored in the triggered token list isa record power token. If the first token in the triggered token list isa record power token, the process 650 advances to step 664. If the firsttoken in the triggered token list is not a record power token, theprocess 650 advances to step 666.

At step 664, the indirect communication power monitor device 60transmits the record profile token to an appropriate device depending onthe destination device of the record profile token. The indirectcommunication power monitor device 60 transmits an appropriate messageto the appropriate device or takes an appropriate action depending onthe destination device of the record profile token. If the appropriatedevice is an indirect communication power monitor device 60 or a directcommunication power monitor device 50, the indirect communication powermonitor device 60 transmits a record power token to the appropriatedevice through the power monitor, signaling and switching device 258 andthe device power port 270 to the appropriate device. Otherwise theindirect communication power monitor device 60 begins recording a powerprofile in the power monitor, signaling and switching devices 258 of theindirect communication power monitor device 60 for the destinationdevice of the record profile token. After the indirect communicationpower monitor device 60 transmits the appropriate message, the firsttoken stored in the triggered token list is removed from the triggeredtoken list, and the process 650 advances to step 676.

In a certain embodiment, the direct communication power monitor device60 begins recording a power profile upon receipt of a record powertoken.

At step 666, the indirect communication power monitor device 60determines whether the first token stored in the triggered token list isa reduce power token. If the first token in the triggered token list isa reduce power token, the process 600 advances to step 668. If the firsttoken in the triggering token list is not a reduce power token, theprocess 600 advances to step 670.

At step 668, the indirect communication power monitor device 60transmits the reduce power token to an appropriate device depending onthe destination device of the reduce power token. Reduced power tokensare discussed below with reference to FIG. 8. The indirect communicationpower monitor device 60 transmits an appropriate message to theappropriate device or takes an appropriate action depending on thedestination device of the reduce power token. If the appropriate deviceis an indirect communication power monitor device 60 or a directcommunication power monitor device 50, the indirect communication powermonitor device 60 transmits a reduce power token to the appropriatedevice through the power monitor, signaling and switching device 258 andthe device power port 270 to the appropriate device indicating theamount of power consumption that must be reduced. If the appropriatedevice is the intelligent electrical outlet 112, the indirectcommunication power monitor device 60 transmits a power off token if thepower being used by the device attached to the intelligent electricaloutlet 112 must be discontinued to satisfy the reduce power token.Otherwise, the indirect communication power monitor device 60discontinues providing power to any device, appliance or the like, ifthe power being used by the device, appliance or the like must bediscontinued according to satisfy the reduce power token. After theindirect communication power monitor device 60 transmits the appropriatemessage, the first token stored in the triggered token list is removedfrom the triggered token list, and the process 650 advances to step 676.

At step 670, the indirect communication power monitor device 60determines whether the first token stored in the triggered token list isa power status token. If the first token in the triggered token list isa power status token, the process 650 advances to step 672. If the firsttoken in the triggering token list is not a power status token, theprocess 650 advances to step 674.

At step 672, the indirect communication power monitor device 60transmits the power status token to an appropriate device depending onthe destination device of the power status token. The indirectcommunication power monitor device 60 transmits an appropriate messageor takes an appropriate action depending on the destination device ofthe power status token. If the appropriate device is an indirectcommunication power monitor device 60 or a direct communication powermonitor device 50, the indirect communication power monitor device 60transmits a power status token to the appropriate device through thepower monitor, signaling and switching device 258 and the device powerport 270 to the appropriate device. Otherwise, the indirectcommunication power monitor device 60 transmits the power profileassociated with the destination device of the power status token to theassociated direct communication power monitor device 50 through thepower supply port 264 of the indirect communication power monitor device60. After the indirect communication power monitor device 60 transmitsthe appropriate message, the first token stored in the triggered tokenlist is removed from the triggered token list, and the process 650advances to step 676.

At step 674, the indirect communication power monitor device 60 reportsan error message. Once the indirect communication power monitor device60 reports the error, the process 650 advances to step 676.

At step 676, the indirect communication power monitor device 60determines if there are any tokens remaining in the triggered tokenlist. If any tokens remain in the triggered token list, the process 650advances to step 654. If no tokens remain in the triggered token list,the process 650 advances to step 652.

In an alternate embodiment, the record power token can be eliminated,and the power on token can include the functionality of the record powertoken. For example, if a power on token stored by the indirectcommunication power monitor device 60 of the device 14 is triggered, theindirect communication power monitor device 60 of the device 14 can senda power on token to a controller of the device 14 causing it to beginoperating, and the indirect communication power monitor device 60 of thedevice 14 can begin recording a power profile for the device 14.

In another alternate embodiment, the power status token can beeliminated, and the power off token can include the functionality of thepower status token. For example, if a power off token stored by theindirect communication power monitor device 60 of the device 14 istriggered, the indirect communication power monitor device 60 of thedevice 14 can send a power off token to a controller of the device 14causing it to cease operation, and the indirect communication powermonitor device 60 of the device 14 can send the power profile for thedevice 14 if it has been recording one.

FIG. 7A illustrates a process 700 for retrieving information pertainingto completed contracts. The power stations 150, 160 or other directcommunication power monitor devices 50 begin the process 700 by logginginto the power auction server 180 at step 702. Once the power station150, 160 or the direct communication power monitor device 50 is loggedinto the power auction server 180, the process 700 advances to step 704.

At step 704, the power station 150, 160 or the direct communicationpower monitor device 50 chooses whether or not to download from thepower auction server 180 completed contracts from the successfulexecution of prior auctions of the power station 150, 160 or the directcommunication power monitor device 50. If the power station 150, 160 orthe direct communication power monitor device 50 does not want todownload any contracts, the process 700 exits. If the power station 150,160 or the direct communication power monitor device 50 wants todownload existing contracts, the process 700 advances to step 706.

At step 706, the power station 150, 160 or the direct communicationpower monitor device 50 downloads completed contracts stored in the datastorage element 184 on the power auction server 180. The power auctionserver 180 downloads the completed contracts, each of which can includea power profile, to a specified location. The completed contracts can beused to verify that the devices 14, 16, 18, 32, 34, 36, 104, 106, 108associated with the direct communication power monitor devices 50 or theindirect communication power monitor devices 60 used power in compliancewith the agreed upon terms of the auction. Only power that was used incompliance with the agreed upon terms of the auction is eligible for thepreferential rate negotiated by the auction. Once the completedcontracts are downloaded, the process 700 exits.

FIG. 7B illustrates a process 750 for bidding on power auctions. Thepower stations 150, 160 or other direct communication power monitordevices 50 begin the process 750 by logging into the power auctionserver 180 at step 752. Once the power station 150, 160 or the directcommunication power monitor device 50 is logged into the power auctionserver 180, the process 750 advances to step 754.

At step 754, the power station 150, 160 or the direct communicationpower monitor device 50 can review the auctions currently stored in thedata storage 184 of the power auction server 180. Each auction willdisplay the current bid, the amount of power desired and the time framewithin which the power is desired. If there is an auction that the powerstation 150, 160 or the direct communication power monitor device 50wants to bid on, the power station 150, 160 or the direct communicationpower monitor device 50 selects that auction and the process 750advances to step 756. If there are no auctions that the power station150, 160 or the direct communication power monitor device 50 wants tobid on, the process 750 advances to step 760.

At step 756, the power station 150, 160 or the direct communicationpower monitor device 50 places a bid on the selected auction. The powerstation 150, 160 or the direct communication power monitor device 50indicates a price for the power and a transaction time frame, i.e. thetime frame within which the power station 150, 160 or the directcommunication power monitor device 50 is willing to purchase or sell thepower and which is also within the time frame specified in the auction.After the transaction time frame and amount are entered, the powerstation 150, 160 or the direct communication power monitor device 50places the bid. As part of the bidding process, the current bid isupdated on the auction server data storage 184. The power station 150,160 or the direct communication power monitor device 50 may specify forhow long the bid will be valid. A bid may be withdrawn up to the closeof the auction. After the auction is closed, the bid may not bewithdrawn. Once the bid is placed, the process 750 advances to step 758.

In an alternate embodiment, the bid can be withdrawn once the auction isclosed, but there is a penalty for withdrawing the bid after the closeof the auction. In another embodiment, the penalty for withdrawing thebid after the close of the auction is a monetary fine.

The power station 150, 160 or the direct communication power monitordevice 50 is presented with the option to bid on another auction at step758. If the power station 150, 160 or the direct communication powermonitor device 50 elects to review the auctions again, the process 750advances to step 754. If the power station 150, 160 or the directcommunication power monitor device 50 does not want to bid on any otherauctions, the process 750 advances to step 760.

At step 760, the power station 150, 160 or the direct communicationpower monitor device 50 is given the opportunity to exit the process750. If the power station 150, 160 or the direct communication powermonitor device 50 wants to exit the process 750, the process 750 exits.If the power station 150, 160 or the direct communication power monitordevice 50 does not wish to exit the process 750, the process 750advances to step 754.

In a certain embodiment, the power auction server 180 is not involved inthe bidding process. The direct communication power monitor device 50broadcasts a parameterized token specifying the conditions for a powerauction to all power consumers, and the power stations 150, 160 or otherdirect communication power monitor devices 50 respond if they wish tomake a bid.

FIG. 8 illustrates a process 800 for reducing the amount of powerconsumption during a power shortage. A power station begins the process800 by determining whether there is a power shortage at step 802. Thepower station analyzes a database containing all the parameterizedtokens specifying the amount of power the power station has committed tosupply for the time period being analyzed. If the amount of power thepower station has committed to supply for the time period and the powerbeing drawn by the power station for the time period is greater than theproduction capacity of the power station, a power shortage exists. Ifthe power station determines that a power shortage exists, the process800 advances to step 804. If the power station determines that no powershortage exists, the process 800 remains at step 802.

At step 804, the power station specifies a power auction to repurchase atoken. The power station specifies a maximum price it is willing to payfor power, a time frame within which the power tokens must apply andamount of power. The power station creates a parameterized token basedon the specified parameters. Once the parameterized token is created,the process 800 advances to step 805.

In a certain embodiment, the power station 150, 160 may post a requestfor power tokens, for a specific time, on a well known Internet website.

At step 805, the power station transmits the parameterized token to thepower auction server 180. Once the parameterized token is transmitted tothe power auction server 180, the process 800 advances to step 806.

At step 806, the power station determines if any acceptable bids wereplaced for the power auction the power station initiated. If acceptablebids were placed on the power auction, the process 800 advances to step808. If no acceptable bids were placed on the power auction, the process800 advances to step 812.

At step 808, the power station completes the specific power auction. Thepower station pays the agreed upon price for the token or alternativelyprovides a credit, and the token is returned to the power station. Oncethe token is returned, the process 800 advances to step 810.

At step 810, the power station cancels the returned token. The powerstation searches its database for the token matching the token that wasreturned as a result of the power auction. After the power stationlocates the token in its database, the power station modifies the tokenaltering its obligation to provide that amount of power during the timeperiod. Once the token is deleted, the process 800 advances to step 802.

At step 812, the power station determines whether the parametersdefining the auction should be modified. If the power station determinesthat the parameters defining the auction should be modified, the process800 advances to step 816. If the power station determines that theparameters defining the auction should not be modified, the process 800advances to step 814. At step 814, the power station alerts the powerstation operator that the power shortage could not be corrected and theprocess 800 exits.

At step 816, the power station verifies that the power shortage stillexists. If it does, at step 818, the power station specifies modifiedparameters describing the power auction. The price, time frame, amountof power, or any other parameter describing the auction could be alteredto encourage the return of additional tokens. After the parameters arespecified, the process 800 advances to step 805. If the power shortageis determined at step 816 not to exist any longer, the process 800returns to step 802.

In an alternate embodiment, the power station can participate in manyauctions at the same time.

Although the present invention has been described with severalembodiments, a myriad of changes, variations, alterations,transformations, and modifications may be suggested to one skilled inthe art, and it is intended that the present invention encompass suchchanges, variations, alterations, transformations, and modifications asfall within the scope of the appended claims.

1. A method for arranging to provide power to a device, comprising:receiving, from a communications network, a request for power for atleast one device specified by a power monitor device; receiving aplurality of proposals from a plurality of entities desiring to supplypower according to the request for power; determining a best proposal ofthe plurality of proposals based on a selected auction type, wherein thebest proposal comprises a time frame for supplying the power to the atleast one device; and commanding the power monitor device to control asupply of power in accordance with the best proposal, wherein commandingthe power monitor device comprises transmitting a first token to thepower monitor device, using the communications network, at a beginningof the time frame, the first token comprises conditions for powerconsumption in accordance with the best proposal.
 2. The method of claim1, wherein the commanding step comprises commanding the power monitordevice to make power available to the at least one device at thebeginning of the time frame.
 3. The method of claim 1, wherein thecommanding step further comprises commanding the power monitor device tobegin recording a first power profile for a power supply circuitassociated with the at least one device.
 4. The method of claim 3,wherein the first power profile includes a total amount of energyexpended by the power supply circuit during the time frame.
 5. Themethod of claim 3, wherein the first power profile includes an amount ofenergy expended by the power supply circuit during each of a pluralityof discrete time intervals of the time frame.
 6. The method of claim 3,wherein the commanding step further comprises commanding the powermonitor device to transmit the first power profile at an end of the timeframe.
 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the commanding step comprisesproviding power to the at least one device through a particularelectrical outlet associated with the at least one device at thebeginning of the time frame.
 8. The method of claim 1, wherein the firsttoken causes the power monitor device to provide power to the at leastone device through a particular electrical outlet associated with the atleast one device.
 9. The method of claim 1, wherein the first tokencauses the power monitor device to begin a first power profile for apower supply circuit associated with the at least one device.
 10. Themethod of claim 1, wherein the commanding step comprises transmittingthe first token to the power monitor device before the beginning of thetime frame, the first token includes a start time describing thebeginning of the time frame, and the first token causes the powermonitor device to cause the at least one device to begin operating atthe start time.
 11. The method of claim 1, wherein the commanding stepcomprises commanding the power monitor device to disconnect power fromthe at least one device at an end of the time frame.
 12. The method ofclaim 1, wherein the commanding step comprises terminating power to theat least one device from a particular electrical outlet associated withthe at least one device at an end of the time frame.
 13. The method ofclaim 1, wherein the commanding step comprises receiving a command toterminate power to the at least one device from the particularelectrical outlet associated with the at least one device at an end ofthe time frame, and in response transmitting a first power profile atthe end of the time frame.
 14. The method of claim 1, wherein thecommanding step comprises receiving a command to terminate power to theat least one device from a particular electrical outlet associated withthe at least one device at an end of the time frame, and in responsediscontinues recording the power consumed by the at least one device ina first power profile at the end of the time frame.
 15. The method ofclaim 1, wherein the commanding step comprises transmitting a secondtoken to the power monitor device at an end of the time frame, thesecond token commands the power monitor device to terminate power to theat least one device from a particular electrical outlet associated withthe at least one device.
 16. The method of claim 1, wherein thecommanding step comprises transmitting a second token to the powermonitor device before an end of the time frame, the second tokenincludes an end time describing the end of the time frame.
 17. Themethod of claim 1 wherein each of the plurality of proposals comprises aprice for supplying the power to the at least one device.
 18. The methodof claim 1, wherein the best proposal comprises an amount of energy tobe supplied to the at least one device.
 19. The method of claim 18,wherein the commanding step comprises terminating the supply of power tothe at least one device when the amount of energy set forth in the bestproposal has been supplied to a particular electrical outlet.
 20. Themethod of claim 1, wherein the step of commanding the power monitordevice to supply power in accordance with the best proposal is precededby the step comprising informing an entity with the best proposal thatthe proposal of the entity was accepted.
 21. The method of claim 1,wherein the power monitor device request for power comprises: a closetime for determining the best proposal, an amount of power desired, atime frame within which the power monitor device wants to use the power,and a maximum price for the power.
 22. The method of claim 1, whereineach of the plurality of proposals includes a price, and wherein thestep of determining the best proposal of the plurality of proposals,includes selecting at least one proposal associated with a lowest price.23. The method of claim 1, wherein an entity desiring to supply powersupplies power according to the request for power on a best effortbasis.
 24. The method of claim 1, wherein the request for power includesa digital signature.
 25. The method of claim 24, wherein the digitalsignature is used to authenticate that the request originated with thepower monitor device.
 26. The method of claim 24, wherein the digitalsignature is used to verify that the request for power has not beentampered with after being sent by the power monitor device.
 27. Themethod of claim 26, wherein a digital signature verification isaccomplished using public-private key techniques.
 28. A method forarranging to provide power to a power monitor device, comprising:receiving, from a communications network, a request for power for atleast one device specified by a power monitor device, including: a closetime for determining a best proposal, an amount of power desired, and atime frame within which the power monitor device wants to use the power;receiving a plurality of proposals from a plurality of entities desiringto supply power according to the request for power; determining the bestproposal of the plurality of proposals based on a selected auction type,wherein the best proposal comprises a time frame for supplying the powerto the at least one device; informing an entity of the plurality ofentities with the best proposal that the proposal of the entity wasaccepted; and commanding the power monitor device to control a supply ofpower in accordance with the best proposal, wherein commanding the powermonitor device comprises transmitting a first token to the power monitordevice, using the communications network, at a beginning of the timeframe, the first token comprises conditions for power consumption inaccordance with the best proposal.
 29. An arrangement for providingpower to a power monitor device, comprising: means for receiving, from acommunications network, a request for power specified by a power monitordevice; means for receiving a plurality of proposals from a plurality ofentities desiring to supply power according to the request for power;means for determining a best proposal of the plurality of proposalsbased on a selected auction type, wherein the best proposal comprises atime frame for supplying the power to the at least one device; and meansfor commanding the power monitor device to control a supply of power inaccordance with the best proposal, wherein commanding the power monitordevice comprises transmitting a first token to the power monitor device,using the communications network, at a beginning of the time frame, thefirst token comprises conditions for power consumption in accordancewith the best proposal.
 30. The arrangement of claim 29, wherein thecommanding step further comprises commanding the power monitor device tobegin a first power profile for all of at least one power supplycircuit.
 31. The arrangement of claim 30, wherein the commanding stepcomprises commanding the power monitor device to transmit the firstpower profile at an end of the time frame.
 32. The arrangement of claim30, further comprising receiving the first power profile after an end ofthe time frame of the best proposal.
 33. A method for arranging toprovide power to at least one device, comprising: receiving an offer tosell power at a preferential rate from a power supplier; receiving, froma communications network, a plurality of proposals from a plurality ofdevices desiring to purchase power according to the offer to sell power;determining a best proposal of the plurality of proposals based on aselected auction type, wherein the best proposal comprises a time framefor supplying the power to the at least one device; informing the powersupplier of a best offer; and commanding a device of the plurality ofdevices associated with the best proposal to consume power in accordancewith the best proposal, wherein commanding the device of the pluralityof devices comprises transmitting a first token to the at least onedevice, using the communications network, at a beginning of the timeframe, the first token comprises conditions for power consumption inaccordance with the best proposal.
 34. The method of claim 33, whereinthe commanding step comprises commanding the at least one device toconsume power during the time frame.
 35. The method of claim 33, whereinthe commanding step further comprises commanding the at least one deviceto begin recording a first power profile for the at least one device.36. The method of claim 33, wherein the commanding step comprisestransmitting the first token to the at least one device before thebeginning of the time frame.
 37. The method of claim 33, wherein theoffer to sell power includes a time frame.
 38. The method of claim 36,wherein the first token comprises a start time describing the beginningof the time frame.
 39. The method of claim 33, wherein the offer to sellpower includes an amount of power to be sold.
 40. A method for arrangingto purchase power from at least one device, comprising: transmitting anoffer to purchase at least one power token at a first particular ratewithin a first particular time frame; receiving a plurality of proposalsfrom a plurality of devices desiring to sell the at least one powertoken, each of the plurality of proposals including an associatedparticular sale rate; determining a best proposal of the plurality ofproposals based on a selected auction type, wherein the at least onepower token comprises a time frame for consuming an amount of power; andpurchasing the at least one power token in accordance with the bestproposal, wherein the at least one power token comprises conditions forpower consumption in accordance with the best proposal.
 41. The methodof claim 40, wherein the at least one power token comprises the amountof power.
 42. The method of claim 40, wherein the at least one powertoken comprises a start time indicating a beginning of the time frameand an end time indicating an end of the time frame.